Researchers from the University of the South Pacific have achieved a significant breakthrough that could reshape global food packaging practices. Under the leadership of Associate Professor David Rohindra from the Discipline of Chemistry, the team has developed edible and biodegradable food coatings and wrappers made from natural ingredients like cassava starch, agar, glycerol, and plant-based essential oils.
This innovative approach to sustainable food packaging has the potential to alter how food is preserved and packaged globally while positioning Fiji as a future leader in eco-friendly exports. The newly designed cassava-based coating effectively preserves fruits such as mangoes by reducing spoilage caused by fruit flies. This dual action works by accelerating the drying process through osmosis and using clove oil to deter fruit flies from laying eggs, thus extending the products’ shelf life and increasing their marketability. Associate Professor Rohindra remarked on the advantages of cassava, which is abundant in the Pacific, stating that its starch possesses “excellent film-forming properties.”
The team believes that the economic implications of this innovation for Fiji are considerable. As the global market demand for sustainable packaging rises, cassava-based wrappers could emerge as a significant export product that drives job creation and economic growth. “It’s not just about science; it’s about creating jobs, expanding exports, and leading the world in green innovation,” he explained.
The research highlights how Pacific nations can take on a leadership role in sustainable practices. With the pressing global challenges of plastic pollution and food waste, Fiji’s cassava-driven innovation presents a compelling model for sustainable development. The combination of local resources and scientific advancement illustrates how small island nations can enact meaningful global change.
The potential for this edible wrapper to not only protect groceries but also safeguard the planet is within reach, provided there is adequate investment and policy support. This initiative represents a hopeful step forward in the movement towards a circular economy, offering practical solutions to enhance food security and reduce environmental impact. By leveraging local resources, Fiji is poised to make a significant contribution to the future of sustainable food packaging that benefits both the economy and the environment.
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